It is Easter again, and what better time to talk about popular Easter Traditions!

Easter is one of the most important dates in the Christian calendar. It marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the grave. This is the climax of the whole week starting from Palm Sunday through Good Friday. It also marks the end of the Lent period, a 40-day fasting period among Christians.

However, people look forward to Easter for various reasons. While some people simply see it as a period of sober reflection and celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, some others simply look forward to the fun activities of the period.

Here are some of the most popular Easter traditions among Nigerians.

1. Special Easter Delicacy
Since Easter is a period of celebration among Christians, many families prepare special delicacies. Catholics usually celebrate Easter by eating a special delicacy called Frejon. They usually take this meal, prepared with coconut milk and bean soup, during the Holy Week. Nigerians usually consume frejon with fish stew, peppered snail, and garri Ijebu.

Asides from frejon, other Nigerians like to eat other special foods to mark Easter. Families prepare special rice with ‘accessories’, and take it with special drinks. Of course, it is a special occasion.

2. Easter Picnic
Since Easter is a period of public holiday, family members who have been away come home to spend time with their families. It is a good time for families to go out together. They may choose to go to the beach or even just sit at home and have a nice time together. Other places to visit include amusement parks, zoos, malls, and restaurants. Some Churches also organise this, and various families come together to have fun as one.

3. Movies
Some popular television stations dedicate Easter period to showing movies about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is usually a good time for families to come together and see these movies. Some even pick some new lessons from them while some just watch for entertainment. Either way, Easter is a good time to see movies.

4. Concerts
Easter is a good period to organise concerts, especially since we are sure many people are free. Both Gospel and secular musicians organise concerts during Easter, and Nigerians troop in to enjoy themselves. Many musicians also see Easter as an opportunity to cash out.

5. Vacation
A vacation does not necessarily mean travelling out of the country. You may go on a vacation with your family here in Nigeria. Even though some families wait until Christmas to travel to their hometowns, some others take the trip during Easter. Families leave the hustle and bustle of the city to go enjoy some peace and quiet in their hometowns while celebrating Easter with their folks.

Which of these Easter traditions in Nigeria does your family observe? And which one are you able to observe this year, considering the coronavirus crisis?